The Best Boutique Workout for You

Fitness aficionados flock to these specialized classes because they really work. We tested the hottest offerings to find the seven so good that you'll never go back to your regular old elliptical routine.

SLT 30/30

SLT 30/30

In an ideal world, we'd do cardio one day, weights the next, and alternate the muscles we worked for optimal fitness. In the real world, devoting that much time to exercise is virtually impossible. Enter SLT (Strengthen, Lengthen, Tone) 30/30, sometimes referred to as "Pilates on crack." For 30 minutes, you'll perform lunges, squats, planks, bicep curls, and more on a Megareformer, a highly-evolved version of the a Pilates reformer featuring additional springs, straps, cords and handlebars. A half-hour, fast paced, yoga-flow practice follows. The lingering soreness in our inner-thighs, glutes, and upper abdominals is a testament to the class' immediate effects. Although SLT is currently only in New York City, studios throughout the country use similar machine technology. Find a full list here.

willSTRIKE

willSTRIKE

You may have done some kickboxing, but chances are, you've never punched like this. A dynamic one-hour class, willSTRIKE relies primarily on mixed martial arts and jui jitsu — hands are wrapped, gloves donned, and a punching bag hangs from the ceiling. A test of arm strength, core stability, and endurance, the program — much like your child's karate class — helps to develop discipline and patience that carry over to life outside of the studio. "We have found that even the most passive person loves to punch and kick," says Will Torres, founder of willspace. "Even though our clients are not fighters, they are gratified in knowing they are training like warriors." For a similar workout, visit a local martial arts studio — you're hardcore, after all.